 |
| RFID Basics |
| Introduction to RFID |
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a general term that is used to describe a system that transmits the identity (in the form of a unique serial number) of an object wirelessly, using radio waves.
RFID is evolving as a major technology enabler for tracking goods, assets, and vehicles around the world.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one member in the family of Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technologies and is a fast and reliable means of identifying just about any material object
|
| Characteristics of RFID |
- RFID does not require line-of-sight to read and write the tag data
- RFID systems offer simultaneous identification - capturing data from multiple tags within range of the antenna at the same time.
- RFID tags read at very rapid rates - RFID can read tag identification codes at a rate of up to 1,000 tags per second.
- RFID tags can be encapsulated in hardened plastic making them durable and ideal for harsh environments involving elements such as grease, dirt or paint.
- Active RFID tags can support read/write operations, enabling real-time information updates as a tagged item moves through the supply chain.
|
| Automatic Identification |
RFID technologies are grouped under the more generic Automatic Identification (Auto-ID) technologies. RFID is often positioned as next generation bar-coding because of its obvious advantages over barcodes. However, in many environments it is likely to co-exist with the barcode
| Criterion |
RFID |
Bar Code |
| Identification |
Unique at item level |
Common for similar SKUs |
| Human Intervention |
No |
Yes |
| Visible Outside of Packaging |
Not Necessary |
Necessary |
| Line of sight required |
No |
Yes |
| Can be duplicated |
No |
Yes |
| Password Protected Item Data |
Yes |
No |
| Read Range |
Varies |
< 50 cm |
| Read/Write Capabilities |
Yes |
No |
| Amount of data |
UID + other custom data |
UID |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
